By Seraina Caviezel

The oldest surviving family-owned business in the hamlet of Oyster Bay, Bonanza’s Stank, is finally getting the recognition it deserves with a historical marker.

The company was founded in 1897 by Italian immigrants John and Emma Bonanza, who came from Italy with the dream of selling their homemade Italian ice cream.

They pushed their cart down the street to the playing fields and through the community until they settled on Shore Avenue in Oyster Bay, where they still live 127 years later.

“127 years later, John and Emma’s dream is still alive, here in Oyster Bay,” said Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “With determination, hard work, an entrepreneurial spirit and that Oyster Bay spirit, this family then and this family now continues to show their love for the community by having this very special business.”

The stand has evolved from humble beginnings to a beloved local institution. Bonanza’s is known for selling hot dogs and more than 100 unique flavors of Italian ice cream, ranging from chocolate to rainbow.

“Bonanza’s is a community business. We love serving the people,” said Phil Jr. Bonanza, a fourth-generation Bonanza. “We look forward to carrying on the traditions for generations to come.”

Saladino and city officials unveiled the historical marker that represents the generational legacy of John, Micheal, Phillip Sr. and now Phillip Jr.

A crowd of over 30 Bonanza enthusiasts of all generations, grandparents, parents and children, gathered to celebrate this iconic establishment and its history.

“We have so many members of the community here for this very special occasion, people who have been here for years and young people who are just finding their roots in the community,” Saladino said.

Saladino acknowledged Oyster Bay’s rich history, noting that President Theodore Roosevelt didn’t begin his term until 1901. Of course, he also enjoyed Bonanza’s ice-cold Italian ice cream.

“We have so much to be proud of with an abundance of history. I am very proud to be joined by members of the Bonanza family who have served our community for generations,” Saladino said. “A company that is in the fabric of the Oyster Bay community and the history of Oyster Bay.”